If you choose to submit test scores, performance on the ACT or SAT is only one factor considered in the admission process. In addition to your composite score, we also consider your sub-scores in the area(s) (English, math, reading, science) that closely relate to your intended major at UWM. While the writing portion of the ACT is not required, we will consider these results if you wish to submit them.

We want to know more about you beyond your academic record and test results! Other factors considered in the review process include, but are not limited to, student experiences, work experience, leadership qualities, motivation, community service, special talents, etc. This information is collected when you complete the application.  The essay is where you answer the prompt and tell your story.  Letters of recommendation are not required but will be considered should you choose to send them.

Freshman students can now apply using either the UW System application or the Common App. Are you applying exclusively to UWM or UW System schools? The UW System application will provide an expedited experience. If you are applying to UWM and other schools outside of the UW System, the Common App will be most helpful.

UWM no longer requires an application fee.

The application essay is completed before you submit your application through either the UW-System Application or Common Application.  This is your opportunity to tell your story by responding to the following prompt:

Tell us about something you’ve done — academically or personally — and what you’ve learned from it. Was it a success or a challenge? Did it represent a turning point in your life? How did this particular moment in your life influence you, and how will it continue to influence you as you pursue your college education?

The essay should include:

• Any academic and personal hurdles and/or challenges you’d like us to know about in the context of your application
• Any information that is inclusive of your family or your community experiences

Before you submit your essay, please make sure to:

• Check your spelling and grammar
• Ask someone to proofread your final version
• Include 250-650 words

UW-System institutions, including UWM, are not requiring applicants to submit ACT or SAT scores as part of the application process this year.  UWM will consider applicants for admission with or without one of these standardized test scores.  On the application, students will be able to indicate whether or not they intend to send an ACT or SAT score to be reviewed with their application.  Students who plan to send test scores can submit official scores directly from the testing service, self-report their test scores on the Common Application, or or complete the electronic self-reported test scores form.

To send scores directly from the testing service, select UW-Milwaukee as recipients (ACT school code: 4658; SAT school code: 1473)

UW-System institutions, including UWM, are not requiring applicants to submit ACT or SAT scores as part of the application process this year.  UWM will consider applicants for admission with or without one of these standardized test scores.  On the application, students will be able to indicate whether or not they intend to send an ACT or SAT score to be reviewed with their application.  Students who plan to send test scores can submit official scores directly from the testing service, self-report their test scores on the Common Application, or complete electronic the Self-Reported Test Scores form.

Performance on standardized tests is only one factor considered in the admission process. While the writing portion of the ACT is not required, we will consider these results if you wish to submit them. In addition to your composite score, we also consider your sub-scores in the area(s) (English, math, reading, science) that closely relate to your intended major at UWM. Submission of ACT/SAT results is never required of freshman applicants age 21 or older. 

As always, our Admissions Advisors are available to answer questions!

Once an application file is complete, including application fee and all relevant documents, you may expect to receive a decision in approximately 3-4 weeks.

Yes. If you are changing your term of entry to UWM from one semester to another, complete the Term Change Request form

The Office of Undergraduate Admissions will review requests for reconsideration on a case-by-case basis.  Please follow the steps outlined in the Admission Reconsideration Policy if you wish to have your application reconsidered.

All newly admitted first-year students are automatically granted contract access to live in University Housing. Contract access is emailed to students approximately two weeks after they are admitted, starting in mid-October. Students will complete their contract online at www.uwm.edu/myhousing. The priority date for completing a University Housing Contract is May 1 (December 1 for Spring Admits), and assignments are made by random lottery, which takes into account certain preferences (Living Learning Community, Room Type, Roommate, etc.) made by the student at the time they complete their contract.

UW-Milwaukee does have a Residency Policy which states that all first-time students under the age of 21 are expected to live on-campus, where availability allows. There are a few valid reasons to be exempt from this policy. For more information on the process to request an exemption, visit:https://uwm.edu/housing/students/residency-requirement/.  

First, please visit fafsa.ed.gov for information on applying for financial aid. Then if you have more specific questions, contact the Financial Aid Department at 414-229-4541 or finaid@uwm.edu

Yes, all new incoming freshmen are required to take University of Wisconsin System placement tests so you will be placed in the appropriate level classes.

For students attending UWM at Waukesha and UWM at Washington County, you must take your placement tests at your intended campus  because the essay component is not offered elsewhere.

If students do not take placement tests, you will not be invited to the Student Advising and Registration program (New Student Orientation). This means you would not be able to register for classes.